Social reformer Sir Edwin Chadwick described workhouses as 'uninviting places of wholesome restraint'. What could workhouse records reveal about your family history?
After the Poor Law Amendment Act of 1845 required that the poor were only given relief if they moved into a workhouse, these institutions sprang up across the country, maintained by groups of townships known as Poor Law unions. Rotherham became the centre for such a Union. By the end of the 19th century, nearly 600 people could be accommodated. Rotherham Archives holds a wealth of records which provide insight not only on the inmates but also those who worked there.
Delve into this often-overlooked history with our knowledgeable staff. In this presentation, we'll explore the resources you may use in researching the lives of your ancestors during challenging times. Discover the resilience and strength of those who endured and gain a deeper understanding of their stories.